We are looking to draw first blood

One week into the tournament and I am happy with the way things are panning out for the Knight Riders. It was a good, solid win the other night against the Deccan Chargers.

One week into the tournament and I am happy with the way things are panning out for the Knight Riders. It was a good, solid win the other night against the Deccan Chargers. Everybody made a contribution, and when everyone chips in, a positive result is there for the taking.

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It is heartening to see the group relaxed and positive. A lot of credit for this must go to the team owners. This is a truly chilled-out group, with the owners never really interfering in the cricket aspect, preferring instead to leave it to the cricket people.

All thanks to support staff

The support staff also brings such a wealth of experience with it. Wasim Akram is a legend and his presence and inputs as bowling coach add a lot of value to the unit. Coach Dav Whatmore has the ability to make the players feel relaxed and enjoy the game. It's a healthy atmosphere to work in and I would give the people who are behind the scenes, and not on the field, full credit for this.

With such an atmosphere, it’s good to look ahead at our next contest, against the Rajasthan Royals at Jaipur. They have two consecutive wins under their belt and are a very good side. Their attack has good balance of pace and spin.

But most of our batsmen have spent time in the middle over the last two games, and if we continue our good form, we should be able to put up a good score.

We play RR in back to back games and that makes it crucial for us to get the upper hand on Friday.

Kallis, a thorough professional
While we have not had one big knock, Jacques Kallis looks in ominously good form. It has been a privilege to share the dressing room with one of the greats and it’s wonderful to see what a thorough professional he has been. He is so clear
about his role and his presence has an air of quiet, solid dependability. GAMEPLAN